1.2 Describe signs and symptoms of common childhood illnesses

This guide will help you answer 1.2 Describe signs and symptoms of common childhood illnesses.

Signs and Symptoms of Common Childhood Illnesses

Working with young children means dealing with various illnesses. It’s essential to identify them early to provide the right care. Here is a detailed description of common childhood illnesses, their signs, and symptoms.

Colds and Flu

Colds and flu are frequent in children. They spread easily in settings where children gather.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever (more common in flu)
• Headaches and body aches
• Fatigue and weakness

Differences between Cold and Flu:

While both share similar symptoms, flu is usually more severe, causing high fever and intense fatigue.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a viral illness that’s very contagious. It’s less common now because of vaccination.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Red spots that turn into itchy blisters
• High temperature
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

These symptoms appear 1-2 days before the rash, and the spots usually scab over in a week.

Measles

Measles is an infection that begins with flu-like symptoms and progresses to a rash.

Signs and Symptoms:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Koplik’s spots (tiny white spots) inside the mouth
• Red-brown blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads

Measles is serious and needs medical attention.

Ear Infections

Ear infections are common among children, often following a cold.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Ear pain or tugging at the ear
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of balance
• Fluid draining from the ear
• Reduced hearing
• Irritability

Young children may not communicate pain well, so look for behavioural changes.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

This viral illness affects mostly children under 5.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Reduced appetite
• Painful red spots in the mouth
• Rash on hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks

Symptoms are mild and usually clear up on their own.

Croup

Croup affects the airways, voice box, and windpipe.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Barking cough
• Hoarse voice
• Stridor (noisy breathing)
• Fever
• Difficulty breathing

Symptoms get worse at night. Seek medical help if breathing becomes very difficult.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition but may appear with sudden symptoms in children.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Wheezing or whistling sound when breathing
• Coughing, especially at night or during exercise
• Shortness of breath
• Tightness in the chest
• Fatigue during playtime

Asthma attacks vary, and some children may have infrequent symptoms.

Gastroenteritis

Often referred to as a stomach bug, it’s an inflammation of the stomach and intestines.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Fever

It spreads quickly in childcare settings, so hygiene practices are important.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, can be viral or bacterial.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Redness in one or both eyes
• Itchiness
• Gritty feeling
• Discharge forming a crust
• More tears than usual

It’s contagious, so affected children should practice good hygiene to prevent spreading it.

Allergies

Allergies in children could be due to food, dust, or pollen.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Sneezing and nasal congestion
• Itchy, red, or watery eyes
• Skin rashes like hives or eczema
• Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting (food allergies)
• Breathing difficulties (severe cases)

Allergy management is essential to avoid serious reactions.

Summary

Identifying these common childhood illnesses helps manage symptoms and prevent spread. Always consult with medical professionals for diagnosis and treatment. Prioritise proper hygiene and vaccination to reduce the risk of outbreaks.